Prof. Wolfgang Driever "Studying complex systems in a simple model: from stem cells to dopaminergic neural system in zebrafish"

Prof. Wolfgang Driever University of Freiburg, Department of Developmental Biology Internal Senior Fellow of the Freiburg Institute for Advanced Studies

"Studying complex systems in a simple model: from stem cells to dopaminergic neural system in zebrafish"

Complex gene regulatory networks control differentiation of embryonic stem cells into defined neurons. A comprehensive understanding of the consecutive temporal states of these networks would be instrumental for the design of neuroregenerative therapies. However, in mammalian systems the complexity of spatially and temporally distinct states, and especially the lack of synchronicity of cell states has hindered a quantitative network understanding. Here, I will present our work using the zebrafish embryo as a simple model system, in which three major features simplify systems analysis: